Some of the latest trends in the construction industry circle around a handful of themes including technology, sustainability and efficiency. While these themes have been topping the hot list nearly every year in the most recent past, the way in which they are being incorporated into construction is ever-evolving to meet the demands of the market. EPS foam block construction is a key trend that has gained a growing role in improving sustainability and efficiency within the construction world and with the increasing use of technology. Geofoam International has observed and collected the following trends in foam block construction for 2019.
Increased Sustainability with Foam Block Construction
This year, those in the construction industry have experienced rising costs in building materials and at the same time, An increasing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable construction. The solution to these two trends has been insulated concrete form (ICF) construction. ICF refers to the use of special foam blocks that make up the insulation of building walls, usually consisting of expanded polystyrene foam and steel rods that connect and reinforce the blocks together. These building materials provide sustainability in an environmental, economic and practical sense.
Improved Energy Efficiency
As the trend of going green continues to be a hot topic, so too does energy-efficient buildings and homes. Construction site project managers are more and more striving to design towards LEED certification and that means creating the best infrastructure that will have the smallest carbon footprint. Automated lighting, heating and air-conditioning systems and smart home technology are becoming the new standard foundation for building construction. To support and supplement the theme of sustainability and reinforce an energy efficient foundation, geofoam is being used more and more. It’s the go-to for optimal insulation and fills common structures such as green roofs, pools and general insulation. Geofoam works to reduce energy loss because it is a durable, yet lightweight expanded polystyrene material allows it to be a reliable thermal barrier that keeps the air inside from leaking out and the air outside from coming in.
ICF Foam Blocks Can Weather the Weather
As climate change presses on, extreme weather conditions have become all too common and have severely impacted both commercial and residential properties. Foam blocks are now being used more than ever to build structures that can stand up against harsh, and often unpredictable weather conditions including hurricanes, earthquakes and floods. Compared to stick-built construction, insulated form construction is significantly more resistant to emergency situations. This particular material can better withstand high winds and the negative impact caused by tornadoes, hurricanes and storms. Additionally, because they are incorporated within concrete structures, they are naturally more fire and earthquake resistant.
Cutting Costs with Insulated Concrete Form Construction
Insulated concrete form construction is increasingly being used because of it is a cost-efficient option. When compared to wood-frame construction, foam block construction actually cuts heating and cooling costs by up to 25 percent. Although the actual cost of insulated concrete form construction materials might be more, the overall amount you save in the big picture of a construction project is what makes it most appealing. Building and structures that use foam block insulation require less heating and cooling equipment as well as decrease the need for wall thickness. Thus, less money is spent on heating and cooling along with additional materials for wall insulation. Ultimately, insulated concrete form construction is the more cost-effective choice thanks to the higher value it provides building and homeowners.
More Flexibility with Geofoam Block Insulation
The natural structure of insulated concrete forms makes it extremely fit for building construction. It can be easily manipulated and requires little effort, both in terms of manual labor and mechanical equipment. Computerized technology can easily cut and shape to fit the required dimensions. Additionally, there has been an expansion in the uses for construction projects. Fully integrated and continuous EPS insulation is being built into new developments to ensure there are no gaps that would negatively affect energy efficiency.
Geofoam International Stays Ahead of the Construction Trends
With the growing trend to use more sustainable resources and improve energy efficiency, paired with extreme weather conditions, insulated concrete form construction and geofoam applications are on the rise. The cost-effective, versatile and green-friendly building method is meeting today’s market demands and consumer needs. In fact, the insulated concrete form industry is forecasted to have a compounded annual growth rate of 7% between 2016 – 2022, according to the Global Insulated Concrete Form Market Research Report. Stay with the trend and look to Geofoam International for all your foam block construction materials and services. We’re here to help you build more sustainable and efficient construction projects that effectively meet the demands of the market.